Day Twelve : 11th December

Matthew 11:11-15

Truly I tell you, among those born of women no one has yet arisen greater than John the Baptist; yet the least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he.
12 From the days of John the Baptist until now the kingdom of heaven has suffered violence, and the violent take it by force.
13 For all the prophets and the law prophesied until John came;
14 and if you are willing to accept it, he is Elijah who is to come.
15 Let anyone with ears listen!

from Together in Song, 284

1. O bless the God of Israel who comes to set us free;
who visits and redeems us, with love for all to see.
The prophets spoke of mercy, of rescue and release:
God shall fulfill his promise and bring our people peace.

2. He comes the Child of David, the Son whom God has given;
he comes to live among us and raise us up to heaven:
before him goes his servant forerunner in the way,
the prophet of salvation, the herald of the Day.

3. Where once were fear and darkness the sun begins to rise—
the dawning of forgiveness upon the sinner's eyes.
He guides the feet of pilgrims along the paths of peace:
O bless our God and Saviour with songs that never cease. Michael Arnold Perry 1942-1996